Federal Judge Presses ICE, Border Patrol Officials On Tactics And Use Of Tear Gas

U. S. District Judge Sara Ellis ordered Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino to testify in a lawsuit regarding the use of force against journalists and peaceful protesters during federal immigration operations. The lawsuit, initiated by Block Club Chicago and other groups, aims to address alleged violations of a temporary ban on riot-control weapons issued by Ellis. During a lengthy hearing, the judge expressed concerns about federal agents' actions in the Chicago area, where 75 arrests were reported amidst increased immigration enforcement.

However, court records indicate that only 15 of these arrests led to federal charges, with five cases dismissed. Ellis interrogated immigration officials about specific incidents, including the deployment of tear gas in Albany Park and East Side, where agents claimed safety was at risk due to crowd actions. Harvick stated that all Border Patrol agents involved had received training on the use of force and body cameras, as required by the restraining order. The ongoing conflict illustrates the challenges of balancing immigration enforcement with community safety and protest rights. This case could have significant implications for federal law enforcement tactics in urban areas.